Further Legal Action Against Zimmerman Would Be Tough

Federal Prosecutors Likely Would Have to Show Racial Hatred Was Motive

By

Ashby Jones

July 14, 2013 4:19 p.m. ET

The acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting death of black teenager Trayvon Martin has prompted some calls for further legal action, but there are significant obstacles to pursing the case in the federal or civil courts.

Shortly after Mr. Zimmerman, who is Hispanic, was acquitted on murder and manslaughter charges relating to the shooting of 17-year-old Mr. Martin in February 2012, civil-rights leaders asked U.S. Attorney...